BATTAMBANG, Cambodia — Some 2,500 people have gathered this morning at a conference to mark the historic dedication of the local Baha'i House of Worship in Battambang.

"A new dawn is breaking," announced the Universal House of Justice in a letter addressing the participants, referring to the historic nature of this development for the Baha'i community.

The vibrant colors, music, and splendor of Cambodia's culture were on display during the morning's program, which began with prayers, readings, and traditional dance. The program also included remarks by several officials from the national and provincial governments as well as the architect and representatives of the Baha'i community.

Following the opening session, participants have been visiting the Temple in groups of 250 for a program of prayers, the first including invited dignitaries and officials. Each group also spends time at a special exhibit, in which it learns about some of the foundational aspects of these edifices, including spiritual empowerment through education, worship and service, and individual and collective transformation.

“It is an edifice of noble purpose, erected by a people of noble spirit.”

"The emergence of a House of Worship in Battambang," wrote the House of Justice, "is a testament to how brightly the light of faith shines in the hearts of the friends there. Its design, the work of an accomplished Cambodian architect, reflects the grace and beauty of that nation's culture; it uses innovative techniques but blends them with forms traditional to the region; it unquestionably belongs to the land from which it has risen...It is an edifice of noble purpose, erected by a people of noble spirit."

"May those who pass through its portals feel their spirits soar within, may their worship of the one true God strengthen the bonds of affection between them, and may their love for God be expressed through the service they render to those around them."